Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Hands down – the best pumpkin cake you’ll ever try! This moist pumpkin bundt cake has a delicious pumpkin flavor, is filled with warm spices, and topped with a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. Way easier than making pumpkin pie – it’s the perfect dessert for fall, suitable for family gatherings, cozy nights in, or holiday celebrations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: This pumpkin bundt cake is packed with rich flavors that will delight your taste buds.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll whip this up in no time.
- Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—from Thanksgiving to birthdays or just a cozy weekend treat.
- Aromatic Spices: The blend of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Cream Cheese Glaze: The drizzle adds an extra touch of sweetness and creaminess, taking it to the next level.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Bundt pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cooling rack
Importance of Each Tool
- Bundt pan: The unique shape creates a beautiful presentation while allowing even baking.
- Electric mixer or whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by thoroughly combining ingredients.
- Cooling rack: Ensures proper cooling of the cake, preventing sogginess at the bottom.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice (or make your own – see recipe notes)
– 1 teaspoons baking soda
– 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup vegetable oil (or canola)
– 1 cup white sugar
– 3/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
– 3 large eggs
– 1 15 oz can pure pumpkin (NOT pumpkin pie filling)
– 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
– 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
– 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
– 1-2 tablespoons milk
How to Make Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare Your Bundt Pan
Grease your bundt pan with butter or non-stick spray. Dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine:
flour
pumpkin pie spice
baking soda
baking powder
salt
Whisk together until well blended.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mix:
vegetable oil
white sugar
brown sugar
Add in:
vanilla extract
Then beat in:
eggs
Mix until smooth.
Step 5: Add Pumpkin Puree
Stir in:
pure pumpkin
Combine all wet ingredients thoroughly before adding dry ingredients.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; avoid overmixing.
Step 7: Pour into Bundt Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared bundt pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
Step 10: Prepare Cream Cheese Glaze
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
cream cheese
Add:
powdered sugar
And enough:
milk
Mix until smooth. Drizzle over cooled cake before serving.
Now you have a delightful Pumpkin Bundt Cake that’s sure to impress! Enjoy your baking!
How to Serve Pumpkin Bundt Cake
This delightful pumpkin bundt cake can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you are hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your dessert experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Top each slice with a dollop of fresh whipped cream for added richness and creaminess.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a comforting treat.
Add Caramel Sauce
- Drizzle homemade or store-bought caramel sauce over the cake for an irresistible sweet touch.
Garnish with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch and flavor contrast.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoy the cake with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea to complement its flavors perfectly.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Slice the cake into smaller pieces and arrange them on a platter with assorted fall-themed treats for a festive display.
How to Perfect Pumpkin Bundt Cake
To ensure your pumpkin bundt cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Use Fresh Pumpkin: For the best flavor, use pure pumpkin puree rather than filling. This will give your cake a richer taste.
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Check Your Oven Temperature: Always verify that your oven is calibrated correctly to avoid undercooking or overcooking your cake.
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Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
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Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents breakage.
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Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to tweak the amount of pumpkin pie spice based on your preferences for warmth and flavor.
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Experiment with Glaze: Customize your cream cheese glaze by adding citrus zest or spices for an extra layer of flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Pairing side dishes with your pumpkin bundt cake can elevate your dessert spread. Here are some delicious options.
- Spiced Chai Latte: A warm, spiced tea that complements the flavors of pumpkin beautifully.
- Apple Crisp: A sweet and crunchy treat that adds texture alongside the moist bundt cake.
- Cheesecake Bites: Mini cheesecake squares provide rich creaminess that contrasts nicely with the lightness of the cake.
- Pecan Pie Bars: Sweet, nutty bars that offer an additional fall-inspired dessert option.
- Maple Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Savory-sweet potatoes bring an earthy balance to your dessert table.
- Candied Ginger Cookies: Spicy cookies that add a zesty kick, enhancing the overall spice profile of your meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A savory side dish that provides comfort and pairs well with sweet desserts.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash: A healthy and flavorful option that fits perfectly within autumn themes and flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Pumpkin Bundt Cake is simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your efforts. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
-
Using pumpkin pie filling – Always use pure pumpkin puree, not canned pumpkin pie filling. The latter contains added sugars and spices that can alter the flavor and texture of your cake.
-
Skipping the flour sifting – Not sifting the flour can lead to a dense texture. Always sift your flour to ensure it is light and airy before measuring.
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Overmixing the batter – Mixing too much can create a tough cake. Stir just until combined for a moist and tender Pumpkin Bundt Cake.
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Not greasing the pan properly – A well-greased bundt pan is crucial for easy removal. Use butter or cooking spray, and consider dusting with flour to prevent sticking.
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Ignoring baking time – Every oven is different, so keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The Pumpkin Bundt Cake stays fresh for up to 5 days in the fridge.
Freezing Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the cake in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop – Place slices in a skillet over low heat with a lid on. Warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making and enjoying Pumpkin Bundt Cake:
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth before measuring it out.
How do I add more flavor to my Pumpkin Bundt Cake?
Consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices like nutmeg or cloves. These additions enhance the flavor profile beautifully.
What can I substitute for vegetable oil?
You can replace vegetable oil with melted coconut oil or applesauce to keep it moist while adding different flavors.
How do I store leftover Pumpkin Bundt Cake?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to five days.
Final Thoughts
This Pumpkin Bundt Cake is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of extra spices. It’s perfect for fall gatherings or any cozy occasion. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy every bite!
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the ultimate cozy dessert with this Pumpkin Bundt Cake! Moist, rich, and bursting with warm autumn spices, this cake is a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie. Topped with a luscious cream cheese glaze that adds an irresistible sweetness, it’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday celebrations, or simply enjoying on a cool fall evening. Easy to prepare with straightforward instructions and common ingredients, this spiced pumpkin bundt cake is sure to become your go-to recipe for any occasion. Treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of comfort this season!
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 3/4 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup white sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3 large eggs
- 1 can (15 oz) pure pumpkin puree
- 1 tablespoon butter (softened)
- 3 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup powdered sugar (or more as needed)
- 1–2 tablespoons milk
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a bundt pan.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, pumpkin pie spice, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix vegetable oil, white sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Beat in eggs one at a time.
- Stir in the pumpkin puree until well combined.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture; mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.
- For glaze: Beat softened cream cheese with powdered sugar and milk until smooth; drizzle over cooled cake.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
